Active Holidays in Northern Greece
Northern Greece seems to rest in an eternal slumber. Yet it is home to some of the most spectacular natural wonders. The region offers you the most incredible nature experiences. If you love to be outdoors and enjoy peaceful seclusion, northern Greece truly is an active holiday paradise.
Furthermore, you will also find a number of amazing cultural treasures: Be it Thessaloniki, the metropolis of the north or the fascinating city of Ioannina with its beautiful lake. Absolutely amazing are also the Macedonian royal tombs in Vergina. And don’t forget about the city of Philippi, which gained great fame thanks to the apostle Paul.
The regions of Epirus and Macedonia are among the most mountainous in Greece. The domineering Pindos Mountains reach alpine heights. In Pindos there are such unique landscapes that large areas are protected as a national park. In the solitude of this magnificent mountain world lies the region of Zagori. With its forty traditional villages, deep gorges, rivers, and stone bridges, Zagori is a world of its own. Here you will find one of the most beautiful hiking and mountain biking regions in Greece. Definitely a place you shouldn’t miss!
There are also fantastic ski resorts in the Pindos massif. Therefore, even a winter holiday here is possible and incredibly enjoyable! Are you more drawn to the sea? Then the beautiful peninsula of Halkidiki is perfect for you. Lively coastal resorts with gorgeous beaches provide an exciting contrast to the abundant nature of the secluded inland.
In Northern Greece almost every outdoor activity is possible. You can do water sports of all kinds, cycling, hiking, and cultural excursions. If you are an adventurer and explorer, a trip to this region is sure to put a permanent smile on your face! We have put together the best adventure tours for you!
How do I get to Northern Greece?
The easiest way to get to the north of Greece is via
Makedonia Airport in Thessaloniki. Once in Thessaloniki, you can easily reach all the regions in northern Greece. The Halkidiki Peninsula is only an hour’s drive away.
The Pindos Mountains you can reach in 2.5 hours, Ioannina and Zagori are about 3-4 hours away. For a trip to Epirus on the northwest coast of Greece, you should plan on a journey of about 4 hours.
Almost everywhere can be reached by public bus. However, if you would like to do a lot of exploring, we recommend renting a car or joining a guided tour.
What is the best time to visit northern Greece?
The north of Greece is a fantastic destination all year round. If you are a cyclist, hiker or culture lover, the months of April to June and September and October are ideal for your visit.
If you love the snow, it’s best to visit between mid-January and mid-March. Water sports enthusiasts get their money’s worth between May and October.
What are the best outdoor activities in Northern Greece?
The mountains of the north are perfect for hikers and mountain bikers. The Pindos National Park offers an endless expanse and breath-taking nature, ideal for both activities.
Water sports enthusiasts will be happiest on the coasts of the Halkidiki Peninsula and on the islands of Thasos and Samothrace off the coast of Thessaloniki.
What is the Pindos Trail?
Pindos Trail, one of the longest long-distance hiking trails in Europe is currently being built in Pindos. This ambitious project is called
TERRA PINDUS. It was initiated by the locals who hope to revitalize the rural areas and mostly hidden picturesque mountain villages of the north. The Pindos Trail will lead from northern Greece to the coast of the Gulf of Corinth. A great initiative for sustainable tourism that truly deserves all the support it can get – including yours!
What should I see in Northern Greece?
The list of things to see and do in northern Greece is endless. Be sure you don’t miss Thessaloniki, the culinary capital of Greece, with its many sights. Also unforgettable is a visit to the legendary Macedonian royal tombs in Vergina.
The excavation site of Philippi, where the Apostle Paul founded the first Christian church in Europe, and where he would later send letters to the Philippians, is also well worth visiting. Philippi was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016.
In addition, Ioannina in the northwest is worth at least one visit. The city of Ioannina impresses with its unique old town and its beautiful lake. On the lake lies the islet from where Ali Pasha ruled over a vast empire in the Middle Ages. The eternally young capital of the region is full of charm and shouldn’t be missed. The Perama Dripstone Cave, only 3 km away, is a highlight for both young and old.
The excavations of Dodona, just a few kilometres from Ioannina, are also well worth a visit. In ancient times, Dodona was the second most significant oracle site in the world. The Zagori villages are also only half an hour’s drive from Ioannina.
Where is the Pindos National Park?
The
Pindos National Park, founded in 2005, is located in north-western Greece. Many claim that this national park is Greece’s best-kept secret.
It stretches between Ioannina and Grevena and covers an area of almost 2 million square metres / 21.5 million square feet. Within the protected area lie the 40 villages of Zagori with its famous Vikos Gorge, the Aoos Gorge, and the traditional mountain village of Metsovo, which in winter is a popular destination for touring skiers.
On top, Vasilitsa Ski resort in the northern part of the National Park is one of the biggest and most popular skiing areas of Greece.
